Anonym / Monday, November 8, 2021 / Categories: News, Press Releases, Home Page Will County Health Department offers safety tips to ensure healthy and happy holiday gatherings The Will County Health Department reminds residents to continue to observe COVID-19 safety protocols at upcoming family gatherings. Because of the availability of the vaccine and the growing number of people who are receiving the vaccine, many families are expected to resume traditional celebrations. “This year, we want everyone to be able to share the holidays with friends and family,” said Will County Health Department Executive Director Sue Olenek. “But we are still not out of this pandemic, and we do not want people to forget precautions and contract or spread the COVID-19 virus.” The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued important reminders for this holiday season. 1. Travel – Delay travel until fully vaccinated. If eligible, get a booster shot. If not vaccinated, test 1-3 days before travel, and 3-5 days after travel. Try to travel in off peak times to avoid crowds. Wear a mask in public transit vehicles. Practice frequent hand washing, and try not to touch handles, knobs, buttons, and other highly touched surfaces.2. Gatherings – Keep indoor gatherings small. Arrange seating to allow for social distancing, when possible. Open windows and doors to increase air flow. Clean and sanitize common areas frequently. Unvaccinated individuals are encouraged to wear a mask3. Holiday Shopping – Consider shopping online and have items delivered to your home or curbside pickup when available. Wear a mask in public. Shop in off peak hours to avoid crowds. Practice frequent hand washing, and try not to touch handles, knobs, buttons, and other highly touched surfaces. “If all of us continue to be cautious and observe these safety tips, we can enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season,” Olenek said. “We want a fresh start in 2022, continue the decrease in COVID-19 positive cases, and increase the number of people who are vaccinated.” For additional information from IDPH about holiday safety, visit the website: https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/holiday-season-safety.html. For information about the COVID-19 vaccine or to schedule a vaccination, visit the Will County Health Department website: www.willcountyhealth.org/vaccine-locations. Print 3064 Tags: Will County Health Departmentcovid-19holiday safety tipsfamilygatheringsholiday shopping Documents to download HD holiday safety tips 11-8-21(.pdf, 137.95 KB) - 100 download(s) More links IDPH Holiday Safety Tips Will County Health Department Covid-19 Vaccine